Ethiopia Begins Construction of Military Base Near Sudan"s Sennar Region

Author: David Park

Date: January 11, 2026

In a significant military development, Ethiopia has commenced the construction of a major military base along the border with Sudan"s Sennar region. The construction efforts began in April 2025 and are aimed at establishing a strategic military presence in the area.

Key Details

The military base is designed to accommodate a large number of personnel, featuring 650 tents and six warehouses, with the capacity to house over 3,000 fighters. This substantial infrastructure indicates Ethiopia"s intent to bolster its military capabilities in the region.

According to the Qatari think tank "Eekad", the primary purpose of the base is to station the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This move raises concerns about the potential for Ethiopia to open a new front against Sudan through the Sennar region, which has been a focal point of tension between the two countries.

In recent months, Ethiopian media has been amplifying claims regarding a supposed build-up of the Tigray People"s Liberation Front (TPLF) fighters in Sudan, specifically in the disputed Fasherga region. This narrative appears to be part of a broader strategy to justify military actions and mobilization along the border.

Additionally, reports from Afrimeosint indicate a notable increase in military cargo aircraft linked to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) arriving in Ethiopia. This influx of military supplies could further enhance Ethiopia"s military readiness and operational capabilities.

Background

The construction of the military base comes amid ongoing tensions in the Horn of Africa, particularly between Ethiopia and Sudan. The RSF, which has been involved in various conflicts within Sudan, including the Darfur region, has been a contentious force in the area. The establishment of a military base to support the RSF could escalate existing conflicts and complicate the geopolitical landscape in the region.

The TPLF, which has been engaged in a conflict with the Ethiopian government since late 2020, has been accused of seeking refuge and support from neighboring countries, including Sudan. The allegations of a TPLF build-up in Sudan may serve as a pretext for Ethiopia to justify its military actions and assert its influence in the border regions.

Image for Ethiopia begins construction of military base near Sudan"s Sennar region

What"s Next

The construction of this military base is likely to have significant implications for regional stability. As Ethiopia strengthens its military presence along the border, tensions with Sudan may escalate, potentially leading to confrontations. The involvement of external actors, such as the UAE, further complicates the situation and raises questions about the future of military engagements in the region.

As previously reported, the dynamics in the Horn of Africa are continuously evolving, and the international community will be closely monitoring these developments. The situation remains fluid, and further actions by Ethiopia or Sudan could reshape the geopolitical landscape in this strategically important area.

For more on related coverage, see our article on recent developments in international politics.